Hello and welcome to a special edition of Line Drive a recap of the grand Final by number one correspondent The Legend, The master and great bloke Kevin Pool
North East Baseball Association wound up their season on Sunday playing the Grand Final games at Targoora Park Wangaratta in perfect conditions.
N.A.S.C. Bears and Wangaratta Rangers Black played off for the “A” Grade pennant, Rangers Black batted first and were off to a good start when their lead- off batter, Mark Drage hit a two base git to centre field. Drage then went on to third off their second batters hit and with two runners out was brought home when their fourth batter got on base from a fielding error to have one run on the board before their third out was made. Angus Young started on the mound for Rangers Black and threw well for the first three innings, having only four batters face the plate in each inning and no batter got past first base safely. Rangers Black brought two more runs in their third turn at bat when some good base running forced Bears into rushing their fielding throws and ending in errors to Rangers advantage allowing them to hold a three runs to nil lead going into the fourth inning. Rangers Black batters went three up – three down in their turn at bat. The Bears first batter to face the pitcher in their dig. Greg Daniel hit a home run to centre field with the second pitch thrown to him, their next three batters got on base. Two from walks and one from a two base hit with bases loaded. Bears youngest player in Brad Nicholson, hit the very first ball pitched to him over the cones at centre field for a home run, bringing on a Grand Slam – another four runs for Bears and a pitching change for Rangers Black, Young had thrown 70 pitches, 38 of them strikes and Bears were starting to get his style.
Rangers’ Canadian player Bryan Wilson was their lucky player brought on to pitch and to try and stem Bears run flow. After walking the first batter to face him, Wilson struck-out the next batter to get the first out. Their fourth batter was put out at first base for the second out and the third out was made at home when the runner was caught trying to steal a run and Bears run rate was brought to a holt. With one out in their fifth inning, Rangers Black brought in another run when Nathan Pool was forced around the diamond by his fellow batters after hit a stand-up double to centre field, Rangers trailed by just one run at the bottom of the fifth inning with the score Bears five runs to Rangers four. Bears were held from scoring in their turn at bat, in fact neither team could get a break in the next four innings with the most batters from either side to face the pitcher was four in any one dig. With time running out and at the top of the ninth inning, Rangers Black had nothing to lose but to throw everything into their last turn at bat. With Bears pitcher, Greg Daniel already having thrown over 130 pitches and showing signs of tiring, Rangers lifted their game and being back at the top of their batting order, had their first three batters on base. Tetsu Kamiyama hit to the outfield to bring in two runs and the Rangers hit the front for the first time in the game. With a safe hit to the outfield, Rangers Black brought in another four runs before they lost their third out and held a five run lead. Bears were yet to bat and the pressure remained to hold them out. Bears first batter was thrown out at first by a perfectly fielded ball by Nathan Pool at third base and thrown to Cam Scott at first. Their second batter was struck-out watching a strike go over the plate and Wilson finished off a good stint on the mound with another strike-out for the game after throwing 89 pitches, 58 of them strikes and after being bridesmaids to Bears for so many years, Rangers could celebrate well into the night with a well-deserved win 10 runs to Bears 5.
Rangers Orange played Wodonga Warriors 1 for the “B” Grade trophy and were soundly beaten by a much better side on the day.
Chris Jones started on the mound for Warriors 1 and had only thrown ten pitches when Rangers Oranges third out was made. Not to be disheartened, Rangers first pitcher, Brendon French only had to throw six more before they had side away and it looked like we had a game on our hands. Another three up – three down for Rangers Orange and Warriors were back into bat and bat they did and the errors mounted up by Rangers in their fielding and by the time Rangers got the third out, Warriors 1 had 16 runs cross the plate, all from fielding errors. Rangers lost heart, everything they did went wrong and although Warriors stopped stealing bases and running on past balls, they still managed to bring in another five runs in each of their next five innings to run out with a massive 36 runs to Rangers Orange scoreless and only one safe hit for the game.
Benalla Bandits played Porepunkah Panthers for the “C” Grade cup and won in a tight nine innings game with Bandits 10 runs to Panthers 9.
Hello and welcome to this weeks edition of your weekly insight to the personalities who make up Wangaratta’s only Baseball club; The Wangaratta Rangers. Since the last edition much has happened both on and off the field in Rangerland. Last Sunday under cloudy then sunny,then cloudy then sunny skies, the players from six clubs had the opportunity for one last shot at some silverware. In the C-grade game, Benalla and Porepunkah played out a very entertaining and thrilling game with Benalla getting over the line in the last innings. In the B-grade Wodonga were just too good for Wangaratta Rangers Orange. While in the A grade game in-front of a large jovial crowd Wangaratta left it really late in the game to finally overcome a gallant Bears team by the score of 10-5. From all accounts the game was played in great spirit and many players flashed the bat and leather throughout the game. This writer is pretty sure that more will be said about these games in the Wangaratta Chronicle during the week. So it’s now time to wrap up North Eastern Baseballs’ biggest day on the calendar. Through the eyes of Line Drive.
Rangers win for the first time since 2004
It has been a while between drinks for the boys down at the Ranch. Year in and year out the Ranger boys have turned up on grand final day against rivals Bears, looking to turn the tables on their dominance over the North Eastern Baseball Association. After coming agonizingly close last year the Boys from Black were determined to notch a win. The game was an absolute cracker. Rangers jumped on the board early through “The Rage” Drage sending a ball to the line, with the Rangers tacking on a few more runs to race to a 4-0 lead. Rangers Black pitcher, Angus Young looked composed on the mound till the fourth inning, when the Bears bats ran white hot. One thing about The Bears, they are a formidable hitting lineup. Two home runs including a grand slam put Bears on top 5-4. Change of pitcher for Rangers saw Mr Canada, Bryan “Moose” Wilson, come on and backed by some sparkling glove work silence the Bears hitters. Meanwhile for the Bears, Greg “Jack” Daniel, was keeping the Rangers hitters in check. Daniel’s control and pitch selection to the rangers batters was second to none. He was pitching his heart out. In the eighth inning, Rangers had runners on second and third. This was their chance to claw their way in front. Daniel’s was having none of it and through some excellent pitches, got out of a jam. Was it going to Bears year again? After Wilson cruising through the bottom of the eighth it was all in-front of the Rangers hitters in the ninth. Drage set the table by drawing a walk and then the Ranger bat’s came to life. Six runs scored in the top of the ninth. score is now 10-5. But the work was still not done. Never take NASC Bears lightly, no matter how many runs you score. Ranger favourite, Nathan “Pooly” Pool was going to have none of that and pulled off one of the finest defensive plays seen in a while at third base. Moose then did the rest on the mound and the Rangers had done it. North Eastern Baseball Association Premiers 2015. Congratulations Wangaratta Rangers.
Rangers moments after winning the 2015 final. Thanks to Tania Pool for the image
Ranger Monday
it was a quiet affair for the Ranger boys down at Cafe Martini. The boys came in bits and pieces, still reminiscing about the day before. All had celebrated long into Sunday night. Some longer than others. Most other players had made an appearance by 3pm but still no skipper Mick Wyatt! Eventually he was coaxed into making an appearance. We all love the big guy and a big special thanks goes to his efforts on and off the diamond each week for us as a club.
Rob Seymour is “The Game”
What is that old saying that you can’t keep a Rob Seymour down? Well maybe not exactly that phrase, but after a tough week last week against Wodonga Warriors, Buttsy was looking to put on a big one in the grand final. As mentioned last week, Buttsy is a big occasion player. Tough to get out and always attacks on the bases. None more so, than when he took home on a pass ball. Here is how it played out. Ball in the dirt past catcher. Catcher goes to get it, Buttsy sees his chance. Takes off for home. Pitcher coming in to cover the base looking for the tag, Buttsy dives head firdt into home plate spraying gravel everywhere. Call…SAFE! Buttsy gets up and then spits out half the diamond on the team mate Aaron “Azza” Parker. Face covered in dirt and the battle scars on his arm to prove to anyone he slid! He always has been and always will be, “The Game”.
Warriors bring the Venga Bus to Wangaratta
The Wodonga Warriors sure know how to have a good time. For their B-Grade final over the weekend it was decided by The Pres, Steve “Scooba” McMahon that a bus to the game was in order. The faithful piled onto the bus headed for Wangaratta. In a dominant display of pitching by Chris Jones and excellent hitting by all players, the Warriors were never headed cruising to a commanding victory. Then the boys decided to stick around and watch the A-Grade final. When that game was over, did they choose to leave? ‘No, let’s hang around a bit longer.’ Scooba tried on three occasions to gather the troops to no avail. Finally when the sun was long gone, the boys got on the bus to head back up the Hume. Thanks for sticking around and having a yarn with us. One thing, the stories got better about how good we once were as the night went on, didn’t they? Me included of course!
Thanks Blue
It was great to have two great umpires and great blokes make the time to come up and umpire the B grade and A grade finals for the North Eastern Baseball Association. They were amazed about the distance the players travel just to play baseball each week. It was commented that some guys in Melbourne do not like even driving 15 kilometers for a game. In many ways it’s just what we do in the country, travel for sport. It is just part of it.
On another note, the atmosphere down at Targoora Park was excellent over the weekend. With three games of baseball on, it gave the opportunity for all supporters and players to mingle and chat with one another before or during or after their games. Each person who pulls on their uniforms each weekend and drive the kilometers to play a sport they love in the North East, should be proud of their efforts. Thanks to all who came down to Targoora Park or volunteered and cheered throughout the season for your respective clubs. Keep working hard and spreading the word about baseball in north eastern Victoria.
Nambrok the name Being Blokes is the game
The Nambrok crew were at their best on Sunday. Not just comfortable sitting in chairs, the boys had the idea to watch the game in style by bringing down their well traveled couch. The boys lounged and cheered in style and comfort .At the conclusion of the match it was decided to drag it onto the diamond and have a drink there. However from last reports the couch is still down at Targoora Park just lounging around. Thanks for the support this year boys. Never a dull moment from you guys and one of the many reasons why the Rangers are such an enjoyable club to play baseball at.
Watching the game in style. Thanks to Tania Pool for the image
When is a Selfie stick a good idea for your phone? How about on gravel?
It seemed like a good idea at the time but Lauren “Mrs Soak” Grenfell thought it was a great idea to break out the selfie stick during post match celebrations at Ranger ranch. It was a great idea until her phone fell out of the bracket. Not once, but quite possibly more than twice to completely destroy her screen. The photos from the selfie stick? Not too bad Mrs Soak!
Tetsu’s speech
In warm up before the final Tetsu Kamiyama was recounting his round of golf on Saturday to Cam “The Soak” Scott. He informed The Soak he could not put a foot wrong carting 24 points on the front nine. He was dreaming of winning the day and making a speech to fellow club members. Sadly his back nine fell apart, only having 15 points for a total of 39. So no speech for Tetsu. After the game on Sunday Tetsu was awarded best player for the grand final and when asked to give a speech, it consisted of “Thanks.” Wonder what he would have said at the golf club if he had won?
Wangaratta Chronicle. Supporting local sport.
Hats off to the Wangaratta Chronicle for their support over the past baseball season. This was especially evident over the past week when the Wangaratta Rangers graced the front page. This scribe is trying to think to when the last time baseball locally graced a front page of the paper? It has to have been a long time. The action shots taken over the year have been excellent and the writing to the living legend Kevin Pool and support crew for typing it up are to be commended. Each time a score is placed on Twitter it is re tweeted. All these little things help get us known and that we do play baseball in Wangaratta and the North East.
Who owes what for what?
If you have seen Wednesday’s Wangaratta Chronicle there are a few individuals who owe some coin to
“Griff’s Tin.” There has been plenty of discussion on who owes what for what? Front page must be worth a bit, and the rest? Well it was called by The Griff that it would be ‘double fine finals.’ Ever the voice of reason, Nathan Pool, said for those going on the trip, just tip a nominated amount into the tin. Best thing about that? On the Saturday we all get to celebrate again together. Special thanks needs to go to Griff for his mastery of the tin this year, and Chopper McCullough who have planned what will surely be a memorable Ranger Ramble IV.
A picture tells a thousand words.
So true that is, from over the past weekend. If anyone has any photos from any games past or present, have a look through them and place them in the folders on the Wangaratta rangers Facebook website. It is interesting to see how our uniform has evolved over the past few years, also who was and still is, playing for the club. Plus you never know your images may make their way onto Rounding Third!
Relay for Life Rangers Baseball Club
The wise heads down at Wangaratta Rangers have entered a team in the relay for life in Wangaratta to be held at Barr Reserve Wangaratta on September 26th and 27th. Always a great event and a great time is had by all. Let the Pres Tony “Spinner” Smith know if you are keen to participate. Check the Wangaratta Rangers Facebook page for more details.
My Rangers Rules The King is who?
Have to ask the Pres who the King is but I think most of you avid followers out there know already who has won this years crown. Once again man of lucious beard, an all round good guy and man of tin, GMBC player The Griff has taken the 2015 crown. Well done to Griff for what I have been told was an awesome cabonara. Get working on your recipes for next years ladies and gents.
Presentation Time
Presentation is set down for Saturday the 19th of September at Cafe Martini in Wangaratta. The Annual General Meeting will precede the presentation as per usual. All you Ranger players make yourself available and come along and get involved and as well celebrate what has been a great season.
Special thanks to our sponsors
STY Metals, Plumbforce, Reflex Glass, Pave Crete, Action Smash Repairs, Shanley Signs, Rea & O’Keefe, Winsec, Elect Solar, Insite Real Estate, Whitty Produce, Ref-Ridgetech, Your Everyday Gourmet, Cafe Martini and Wangaratta Motor Group. Your support is greatly appreciated.
Special thanks to all the hardworking members of Wangaratta and all the supporters who have been working real hard to improve our great club.
Now finally from me Line Drive
Well that is about it for this edition of Rounding Third. It has been a big year. From Cods Baseball to winning the 2015 premiership. There have been plenty of stories in between. There are plenty more stories that could be told and will be told over the course of the journey. One thing Line Drive has found in writing this insight every week, is the amount of people who do check in on it and read it. Many of us have put hours and hours into Wangaratta Rangers and we wouldn’t have it any other way. I am pretty sure that this will not be the last edition for 2015 as one may be written after presentation night among other things. If anyone has any ideas and thoughts about this blog please let me know.
Hello and welcome another edition of Rounding Third. This weekend the Wangaratta Rangers faithful will be out in force showing their support for their boys. Rangers Orange tackle Wodonga Warriors 1 while Rangers Black take on perennial powerhouse Bears. They boys had their final training run of the year on Wednesday night then had a hot dog night just to cap the training season for another year. This edition is a little different in format. The following will be a guide to who is who playing for the Wangaratta Rangers on Sunday.
Starting with Rangers Orange Ian “Dino” Dinsdale
The warrior. Knows how to win. Dino has taken his red hot form from Cods Masters all the way through the season. Always a threat with the bat and very solid at first base.
Tony “Spinner” Smith
Also known as The Pres, Spin has relished his chances to play all year. Is in red hot form going into the decider. Had a ripper of a game a couple of weeks back and looks to have found his mojo at short stop once more. Runs the bases hard and a fierce competitor.
Rob “Beaker” Barbour
Has struggled a little with injury in the past few weeks, Beaker will bechomping at the bit to test himself once again. Has proven himself at all levels of baseball, a former coach, North East representative and foundation Cod. Beaker will be looking to come off the bench and make an immediate impact with the bat.
Brendon “Frenchy” French
Frenchy is an innings eater. This means give him the ball and he will throw all day for you. Has a variety of pitches and can still thow hard when he wants to. When not pitching he is platooning between second and third base. Clutch hitting is his forte.
Jason “JJ” Jonker
The Wodonga connection. Jonker has traveled all over the countryside to play for the Rangers. Just like Frenchy relishes the opportunity to pitch. May be down on velocity at times but has shown great pitch craft. Can work over hitters by his precise location. Can track a flyball at centre field and a clutch hitter.
Kelsey “Burderonthedancefloor” Burder.
He better not kill the groove. No he won’t! Burder has chalked up over 200 games of service to Wangaratta and the high majority has been from behind the plate. Calls a good game. When Burder is up, his team mates seem to lift. Leader of the Nambrok crew.
Kyle “Thrillmore” Gilmore
A Ranger crowd favorite. Gilly is a cult hero. Unofficially second in charge of the Nambrok crew, Gilly is a hard hitting third baseman. Can pull off the unbelievable play at the ht corner. Will certainly bring some x-factor to game on Sunday.
Brad “Undies” Murdoch.
The third member of the Nambrok crew, Murdoch has continued to improve in his second full season of baseball. Is quick over 90 feet and is a reliable calming outfield presence to the Orange lineup. Has been spotted on the mound from time to time.
Scotty “Jenko” Jenkins
He is a big rig with a big beard, Jenko dabbled in switching hitting last season, but has decided to bat from the right side once again. Has some good solid form behind him over the past month and can play a variety of positions. A true utility. Always a threat with the timber.
Jumping Jack Bradburn
The youngest and newest addition to the Orange lineup, Jack has reveled in playing this year with the Orange lads. Has doubled the ranks of left-handed bats at the club. Jack is still learning the game but look for him to bob up and get that clutch hit we all know he can do. Young fresh legs on the bases, always gives 110 per cent.
Dan “The Griff” Griffin
Played a couple of times last year and got the taste for it. Now The Griff plays Saturday for GMBC then comes home and dons the Ranger Orange on a Sunday. Doubles as our fines master among other things on the diamond. Griff is a positive influence on the dugout and is another member of the Nambrok crew. Sure pair of hands in the outfield and a good base runner.
18
Makes an impact no matter where he goes. 18 can hit run and do it all. Loves a yarn and a joke. When not playing is there watching and supporting the boys. A very positive influence on the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball club. Great to have him down there.
Special mention to those who have also put on the Orange this year. Justin Mortimer who has shown form of old and can still throw a good game. Sure with the hands and can play anywhere on the field. Sean Warfe who will be looking forward to getting a few more games in next year. Is the complete player. Cheyne Gilmore who played one game with his brother Kyle which saw the boys have a hitting duel.
Now time for the Ranger Black
Mick “The Skipper” Wyatt
The skipper has had a great year. From his time with the Cods and over the season, Mick has been an ever-present and willing to get in and have a crack. Can hit a ball a long way and is a sure pair of hands at first base. look for Mick to come off the bench and make his presence felt in the final.
Nathan “Pooly” Pool
The training guru, what would we do without Pooly? Thrown a few innings this year. Always gives it his all on the mound. Pooly has had a great season with the bat and is another calming influence on the Black lineup. Plays good third base when not pitching.
Rob “Butts” Seymour
The ultimate competitor. Seymour thrives on competition. Has shared catching duties with Aaron Parker this year and loves to throw runners out. Excellent outfielder and is a tough out when at the plate. look for Butts to have a big game this Sunday. He always does.
Tetsu Kamiyama
When not playing golf Tets loves to play baseball. Most likely the best hitter the north east has seen in the past 15 years, Tets is the number four hitter in any lineup. Lighting quick hands on the infield at short stop and second base, loves to play and is always up and about.
Travis “Frosty” Frost
A big game player. Frosty is a man who knows plenty about the game. Recently returned from injury and is better for the last couple of runs. Clutch hitting is his forte. Can refocus the Black lineup with his words and is both an on-field and dugout leader.
Bryan “Moose” Wilson
Moose can be a brutal hitter. Has hit some very log balls this season. Moose loves competition and will be chomping at the bit to get out there on Sunday. Another pitcher who has done the job on the mound this season. Moose just loves it.
Mark “The Rage” Drage
Centre field general, Dragey can chase down plenty of fly balls the rest of us cannot. The lead-off hitter of the lineup and has shown a great love of swiping the extra base all year. Another who is happy to be playing after a layoff due to the weather, Dragey will be ready to go come Sunday.
Aaron “Azza” Parker
Azza has returned to the club this season and has really enjoyed himself. Excellent catcher and great pair of hands. Azza is another who has thrown some innings this year just adding to his versatility. Bat is starting to get red-hot at the business end of the season. Azza Parker is always a threat
Steve “Fernando” Peruzzo
Another to return to the Ranger fold this season, Fernando has loed each and every game he has played. Started red-hot at Cods this year and has continued this form throughout the season. Hit two home runs a couple of games back swinging wood. Fernando is a safe pair of hands in the outfield.
Angus “Gusbus” Young
Gus. Need we say more. Loves the game and has rubber arm like flexibility. Gus has played a few times this year and look for him to be directing traffic from first base coaches box and on the hill. Has thrown some gems in the past grand finals and knows how to hit the corner of the strike zone.
Oh and Cam “The Soak” Scott
Don’t think we need to say much about him. Left handed and plays first base. Talks a hell of a lot. Think that sums it up really.
The support crews
Got to mention the support crews. However they are so many to mention. They show their support rain hail or shine. Especially that day at Benalla! Always great to have supporters there each and every week. Hope I have mentioned everyone. Hope you enjoyed the read.
So see you all there on the weekend. Targoora Park Wangaratta is where the North Eastern Baseball finals are. Good luck gents.
Hello and welcome to this weeks edition of Rounding Third. It has been a big week for the guys and girls down at the ranch. But I tend to say that every week! Over the past weekend saw both Rangers Orange and Rangers Black in action. In two hard fought games Rangers Black earned the right to play against NASC Bears in the Final by defeating a very determined Wodonga Warriors 1 outfit by the score of 10 -5. Next week the Rangers Orange outfit will play off against Warriors in their final. They were able to get over Benalla Bandits 8 – 4. Well done to both Ranger teams. Special thanks goes to Wodonga Warriors Baseball Club for their hospitality and to all the Ranger supporters who trekked up the Hume to watch the days action. Very nice fingernails too Rosemary! What else is news down at the Ranch?
This Sunday Finals Action in Wangaratta.
It is sure to be a big Sunday of finals action in the North Eastern Baseball Association. Perrenial powerhouse Bears take on Rangers Black in the main game, Warriors 1 playing Rangers Orange and Porepunkah playing Benalla in their final. Three big games to cap the season off in style. Fingers crossed the weather gods are kind to the grounds in the next week. This scribe is pretty sure that all will go to plan and baseball will go ahead on Sunday. If you are in the area, drop in say hello and watch some good country baseball.
Hotdogs Wednesday
This Wednesday for the final training run of the year, hotdogs are on the menu. Leader of men Nathan Pool has called for all to attend and have a hotbog. Wonder if this is a my rangers rules dish? Are they gourmet hotdogs? Or just your standard run of the mill savaloy snags? Whatever they are hotdogs are always a favourite. There has been the comment made you better buy in bulk!
Black socks make a return.
Black socks were back with a vengence over the weekend, but this does not spell the end for the hoop. You see the hoop sock is still a great look. So it still goes very well with the old black playing tops. They may be useful when playing against one another or just to wear with your Sunday best! Bryan “Moose” Wilson looks pretty spiffy in his. Check out Mr Canada this Sunday at Targoora Park.
Look out for Rangerman
Some weeks are easier to write than other weeks about what goes on down at Wangaratta and this week is being difficult. Maybe it is because Line Drive is away in Melbourne for work thta makes it a bit harder than most. Good friend of this column Hannah Young was driving past the ground and was in awe of Ranger Man. Now for those who don’t know who Ranger man is, he stands guard weilding his baseball bat at the entry to Targoora Park. For the past few years artist and club legend Kevin Pool had him nipce is gloss black paint. Now he has had a revamp and reflects the new uniform of Orange playing shirts.Wonder if he has his name onthe back and playing number? What number would you give Rangerman?
Birthdays abound
Two of your Ranger favourites celebrated birthdays in the past week. Hand picked chauffeur of Tetsu Kamiyama Aaron “Azza” Parker is a year older and wiser as is the leagues most entertaining third baseman Kyle “Thrillmore” Gilmore. From all of us at Wangaratta hope it was a good one lads.
The routine
Now as you have probably gathered, this Sunday could be dubbed “Super Sunday” for its finals day, but one must remember that before the game baseballers are creatures of habit. Some may run onto the ground not stepping on lines, may like to bat last, wear high socks or chew on sunflower seeds. That may be game day but there are some who must stick to their day before routines. As a coach once told this writer. Have your quota. Stick to your pre game plan. Why do anything different? Most importantly enjoy yourself.
Jumping Jack Jack……
Jack Bradburn is really looking forward to Sunday. And why not! First sports final he has particpated in. It has been great watch Jack develop and learn the game this year. He certainly looks like a ball player! Congratulations Jack. Hope you enjoy the game Sunday.
Now for the club stuff
C Grade Benalla vs Porepunkah 10:15am – 1:15pm
B Grade Wodonga 1 vs Rangers Orange 10:15am – 1:15pm
A Grade NASC Bears vs Rangers Black 1:30pm – 4: 30 pm
All games are 9 innings in length.
Committee meeting Wednesday night after training
Maybe a second edition of Rounding Third in the pipeline
Hello and welcome to a big edition of the one and only insight into baseball in the North East of Victoria. It will also have a bit about those likeable larakins of Wangaratta Rangers Baseball club too.
Finally, the weather Gods were good to the North Eastern Baseball Association. The final round of the season was able to be played after an enforced five week layoff due to grounds being unplayable. Over the weekend, we saw both Rangers teams in action. Rangers Black got the job done over Porepunkah Panthers 18 to 3, while Rangers Orange got over the line against Wodonga Warriors B, by the score of 13-9. Well done to all who came out and played, watched and helped out. By all reports everyone was just happy to get out there and play some baseball. Next week the finals start, with both Rangers teams in action at venues yet to be finalized. As soon the club knows, then we will let you the public know.
So what else has been going on down at the Ranch this week? You are about to find out.
Peruzzo goes deep!
The Fernando legend is getting bigger and bigger down at the Ranch. Since Steve ‘Fernando’ Peruzzo has returned from the Cods masters squad he has been punishing anything that comes over the plate. Over the weekend, the first fastball Fernando saw was dispatched over the left field fence. This was much to the surprise of Tetsu Kamiyama who almost got run over in the home run trot around the bases. The thing is, he did not even hit it sweetly. Just pure strength to get it out. In the next bat Fernando was a little bit shorter than his last shot, the ball traveling just one metre out of the box. He had a bit to prove. In his third at bat Fernando made sure he hit his second home run more sweetly. He put the ball into orbit over left centre field. This has got the Ranger big wigs looking through the records for the last time someone has hit two home runs in one game. What makes it even more impressive? Both were with a wooden bat. Congratulations Fernando on a great game. Hope you got to keep the game ball.
The Pres sees an opening. He has trouble walking through it.
Another to relish being back on the diamond was leader of men, Tony “Spinner” Smith, who wound the clock back in Rangers Orange hard fought win over Wodonga Warriors B. The gents in the the rangers Black squad had just settled in to watching the game when Spinner had trouble opening the gate. Hence giving the gents much pleasure in letting him know which way the gate opens. This must have spurned on The Pres, as the next at bat he bludgeoned a fastball over the helpless left fielders head. The crowd applauded his efforts. However he went on to put on a master class at shortstop. All he now needs to work on is making sure he knows which way the gate swings. Great work Spin.
The Balls keep on flying out of the park
Better check those baseballs that were in use over the weekend, as more long balls have been registered over the past two games than all year. Man of Beard and future lumberjack, Scott Jenkins, has let this scribe know that there were more home runs hit after Line Drive had exited the venue. Jason “Double J” Jonker and Kelsey “Burderonthedancefloor” Burder went deep too. This is on top of Jonker pitching an excellent game and Burder calling the shots from behind the dish. Well done gentleman. Welcome to the 2015 home run club.
Azza Parker gets out the lumber for one of his two hits over the weekend.
Speaking of Jenkins.
The big fella is becoming quite the hitter. After three hits in the first game (I stand to be corrected), Jenkins did the club thing and helped out a depleted Wodnga B outfit by playing a second game at centre field for the opposition. Jenkins relished the opportunity and went on to bat 1000% for the game. His hits were to all parts of the field and his base running was exemplary. Pretty sure he will get votes in Wodonga’s best and fairest after his performance for them. Well done Jenko on putting your hand up and playing a second game. A super effort.
Welcome back boys
Great to see Angus Young return to the mound against Porepunkah. It looked as though he enjoyed his time out there. In the same game another Ranger favorite Travis “Ice Cold” Frost looked refreshed at second base after sunning himself overseas. Frosty then put his hand up and played the afternoon game with the Orange boys to help them out as well. Great effort Frosty.
Rangers. Best dressed club in the North East?
Something the committee have been working on for a while down at Targoora Park has been the Ranger uniforms. Over the weekend it was seen that all the little ducks have come into a line. Both teams looked sensational in their Orange uniforms with the black W caps and grey pants. The names on the backs of the playing shirts is a great touch. Everyone has their favourite numbers, and with the black hoodies and warmup shirts, the Ranger boys have merchandise that is the envy of many. Even our supporters are getting in on the act with Ted Skahill at every game in his Orange and black. From the youngest to the oldest every bit of support is appreciated and welcome.
The season is rapidly coming to a conclusion.
So that wraps up the regular season. There was supposed to be fourteen games, but due to the weather only nine matches were able to be completed. Guess that’s the breaks when we play a winter sport. None-the-less there could be a few weeks to go. Come down to training on Wednesday night for a run around say hello and for a feed and a drink. Or even better try and knock Dan “The Griff” Griffin off his loft perch as number one cook at Rangers for 2015.You never know, it could happen.
Rangers Ramble
The fourth annual ‘Rangers Ramble’ is all systems go for AFL Grand Final weekend, and the powers that be say it looks to be a ripper. The theme was decided then changed and then decided again. Not sure if we can top last years elderly theme but thinking of the boys who are heading away, it could be a pretty close! Please make sure you pay your dues to the tin for strike outs, errors and general misdemeanors (stealing a base when more than ten runs up!!!) Most importanly, have a good time gents!
Now for the club stuff
Games for the weekend are at venues either Springdale, Wodonga or Porepunkah. Check the North Eastern Baseball Association Facebook website for more information.
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Committee meeting this Wednesday night after training. Come down for a feed and a throw.
Hello and welcome to another weekly look into the characters and personalities of the Wangaratta Rangers Baseball club. It has been a few weeks since the last musings and writings, but a fair bit has been happening down at the Ranch. Anyway let’s get straight into it.
Lucky Ticket has been run and won.
Over the weekend has seen the yearly Wangaratta Rangers Lucky ticket draw. Once again the busy bees at the baseball club have put on a show second to none. There was plenty of food drink and frivolity had by all in attendance. It was great to see many old and new faces at this years function. This included many past players from years gone by. They still speak with passion for the great game talk fondly about their days playing baseball in the North East. It shows there is still a community out there who love this great game. Thank you for coming out to The Ranch. hope everyone enjoyed themselves.
Who is head ticket seller now?
For the last few years one of the King Valley’s finest Angus “GusBus” Young has held the mantle of top dog of lucky ticket selling. His ability to sell tickets and the amounts has been unrivaled. Until this year. GusBus still got rid of twenty tickets for the club but has been overtaken by “The Skipper”. Mick Wyatt stepped up and sold over fifty tickets off his own back! A wonderful effort Skipper. It was great to have all the tickets sold before the night. Well done to all who sold tickets for the club.
Ranger Brothers and Sisters take a bow.
It must be said that the Lucky Ticket draw went off without a hitch. This is no small part to the planning, organization and willingness of the members of the club to get in and help out. Everyone who was there last night did their bit. From cooking the barbecue to serving in the bar all night, to helping out on the door, writing numbers down, calling the wheel and keeping the fires going in the wet, every little bit helped for the evening to be the best one yet. The willingness to get in and help out is something that the club should be very proud of. Working together as a club is what it is all about. To all of you out there thank you and well done.
Butt’s loses the crown
During the week Brendon “Frenchy” French posted o picture of Rob “Butts” Seymour practicing his coin toss. He was supremely confident of defending his crown at this years event. Unfortunately this year’s field was red hot. There were some very professional coin tossers and Butts was unable to retain his crown. Never mind Butts, better keep practicing.
Welcome Ranger
Wednesday night last week saw the gents finally get a run on the ground after adverse weather conditions had canceled training in the past few weeks. Once the boys got out there and down to business all looked a little rusty. However new Ranger Alex Gouveia look pretty sharp. He had not played in a couple of years and was looking for a place to have a game and came across the club online and in the newspaper. Welcome Alex. There may be only a few games to go in the season but hope to see you for the rest of the season.
Rain Rain go away!
It has been a tough five weeks for the North Eastern Baseball Association. There has been very little action on the field to report. The weather has been at it’s wintery best, especially over Friday, Saturday and Sundays. Sadly this week like last week and the week before washouts have been par for the course. This has caused much frustration for the boys. However at the end of the day there is nothing that can be done about Mother Nature is there? Hopefully next week for the final round of the season the weather plays nice. All games for the North Eastern Baseball Association final round will be played at Targoora Park Wangaratta.
Does it rain on Saturday’s in Wangaratta Dylan?
Multi-sport aficionado and all round nice guy Dylan “Dylpickle” Cowan invited Cam “The SOAK” Scott for a round of golf on Saturday. While the wether forecast looked pretty good on Friday morning it certainly changed by Friday night. However Dylpickle assured The SOAK that it does not rain on Saturdays in Wangaratta. The SOAK took Dylans word for it and set off under light rain on Saturday morning. By mind round the rain had settled in for the day much to the displeasure of The SOAK who was saturated. No rain on Saturday’s? Golf is hard enough in the dry but in the rain, a whole new level of difficulty! On a side note Dylan, have a great trip back home.
The 2015 Ranger Ramble is beginning to take shape.
The starting field for the 2015 Ranger Ramble to Bendigo has been finalised with a great mix of personalities and characters heading to Bendigo for their annual weekend away. The brains trust of the Double Daniel have been hard at it planning and working out where to stay and where to go. From what this scribe hears it will be a great fun trip with plenty of laughs along the way. AFL Grand Final weekend is when it is. Hopefully the lads can get on the park before the trip to hopefully (or hopefully not) give the trip a little monetary kick along.
My Ranger Rules is getting to the pointy end.
Last week saw round six of the most hotly contested cooking competition in North Eastern Baseball. Dylpickle Cowan put his hand up and served up some very tasty pulled pork rolls. However it was not enough to usurp Dan “The Griff” Griffin from top spot. At this late stage in the competition is there anyone out there who are willing to step up and knock him off the perch? 28 out of 30 is a tough score to beat. Still think there is someone who can top that. If there is throw your hat into the ring and good luck!
Now for the club stuff
Trip away is AFL Grand Final weekend. See Dan and Dan for more details
Training Wednesday night from 6pm Targoora Park. All welcome
Final round games are at Wangaratta come down and have a look
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TalesofLineDrive 